Is that why I’m one of the only girls in a batch of a JEE preparation institute? Is that why only around 20-40% of the student body opting for PCM in 10+2 are women?

To recognize someone as a fellow mathematician means to accept that she is intellectually equal (or even superior) to you and that she has the right to wear, like knight’s armor, her aura of intellectual confidence and independence. Too many men will still feel uncomfortable with that. - Alexandre Borovik

Research on the abilities of both genders have consistently proved them equal. Thus, there can be no claim to the fact that women are discouraged from pursuing a career in Mathematics because she is “a girl” or because her genes say otherwise.

Women are stopped from pursuing Mathematics, not because they are incapable but because they are made to think that they are incapable.

Family, friends, neighbours, even teachers at times, are deeply rooted in this misogynistic fantasy.

Societal beliefs, especially in a country like ours, are rigid and hard to change. But sometimes, you have to scream first, if you want the crowd to chant. To start a movement, you must take the first step. To break the bias, you need to cross the boundaries and wander into the unknown alone.

One name comes to mind when thinking about a woman with such determination and strength.

Sudha Murthy, an author, philanthropist, and Chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, was also a 17 year old girl once, with a dream that challenged the confines of society.

Back in 1968, as the only woman in a class of 150, she broke the chains society had placed on women and pursued engineering. There was no female restroom in her college nor a ladies room. She was forced to wear a white sari at all times. Catcalling, whistling and whatever else plagued the minds of teenage boys with raging hormones and a shattered conscience was bound to follow.

I’ve cited her experience because, though the situation is a lot better, its echoes have never halted and possibly never will. Nevertheless, she stands before us, a remarkable woman with so many achievements under her belt, as a shining beacon of hope and perseverance.

To light your way on the unfamiliar journey through the road less travelled by; you, and you alone, must bear the courage to pick the matchstick and light the torch. And in doing so, not only will you light your own path, you will leave a trail of the pure, radiant glow of inspiration; illuminating the path of others.

About the author: Prisha is just your average Indian teenage girl, struggling with physics and pretty much surviving. She loves to write and is Project Unlabelled’s publications incharge.